Dallas Roofing: Article About Roofing Material Options

Common roofing term explained by the roofers from Total Roofing of Dallas:Galvanized steel

Galvanization is a process that steel will go through to prevent it from rusting. The metal is typically submerged in a bath of molten zinc. The zinc prevents corrosive substances from damaging the steel.

FAQ courtesy of the expert Dallas roofers:What should homeowners know about fire and metal roofs?

Metal roofs are noncombustible, which means they are resistant to fire. When outside sources, like wildfires or fires from nearby homes, come in contact with a metal roof, the fire will not spread to the home below. When the fire comes from an inside source, a premature roof collapse is not likely to occur since metal is lightweight.

Total Roofing: Honest Roofers in Dallas

Homeowners should not procrastinate on roofing repairs. As soon as homeowners see signs of cracked, curled or missing shingles, they should immediately contact a Dallas roofing professional. A roofing professional can examine the roof and help a homeowner see if only minor repairs are needed or if it is necessary to replace the roof. In addition to checking the roofing material, a professional will look at the flashings around chimneys and skylights as well as the rubber boots around vents and pipes for cracks and damage.

Since most homeowners have a limited budget for roofing repair and replacement, it is a good idea for them to become familiar with how roofing material is sold, which is by the square. A square equals approximately 100 square feet of roof area. A homeowner can estimate approximately how much material they will need by multiplying the length and the width of the roof, tacking on an additional 10 percent for waste and then dividing that number by 100. The price for roofing materials will vary depending on the quality of the material chosen. Asphalt shingles, for example, are relatively inexpensive when compared to premium roofing materials like galvanized steel, slate or copper.

The expert roofers at Total Roofing of Dallas can assist you with any questions regarding gutters or roof maintenance.

Because of its inexpensive price, ease to install and relative durability, asphalt is the number one roofing material in North America. Asphalt shingles come in two varieties, organic and fiberglass. Organic shingles are the stronger of the two. They are made from a mixture of recycled wood, paper and asphalt. Fiberglass shingles, while not as strong as their organic counterpart, do offer superior fire protection. It is for this reason that fiberglass shingles are becoming more popular than organic shingles.

Asphalt shingles can be expected to last between 12 to 20 years, depending on how well they have been installed, their exposure to the sun, weather conditions and quality of the shingle when installed. Asphalt shingles come in two structures. There is the thin three layer tab asphalt shingle, and then there is the thicker architectural or dimensional shingle. Both provide adequate protection and can easily be installed by most contractors.

Another option that is growing in popularity is metal. Metal roofing can be made from everything, from aluminum to copper to galvanized steel. Metal roofs are prized for their appearance, longevity and durability. Metal roofing material is light and can often be installed above an existing roof. It reflects the sun's rays and thereby lowers the energy costs in a home. Metal roofs are durable and can last for more than 50 years.

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